Impact on civic engagement

The concept of civic engagement - involvement in activities that address critical societal needs and are personally enriching - is gaining increased attention by non-profit leaders, politicians, educators, and citizens of all ages. Civic activities are both formal and informal and include volunteerism, full and part time work, organizational involvement and electoral participation.

Current data on generational differences and civic engagement focuses primarily on volunteering. Here's some information from the Corporation for National and Community Service (2007) about generational differences :

Members of the GI Generation are often seen as "super" volunteers, contributing more time than any other segment of the population. They are motivated out of a sense of duty, obligation or religious commitment. Many are looking for consistency, structure, respect for their experience and clear rules. The majority of their volunteer activities are performed through or for a place of worship, with the remainder divided among social and community service organizations. Most contribute time on a regular basis, do what is asked, and expect supervision. The youngest, now in their 80's, are rapidly "aging out" of volunteer roles.

Members of the Post War/Silent Generation tend to be group-oriented and want to feel that they are contributing members of their communities. Many are involved in a wide variety of community-based activities. Like the previous generation, volunteerism is highest in religious organizations, followed by civic, political, business and international organizations.